Foxton Attractions

Foxton's attractions are numerous. Each being unique and not found elsewhere in New Zealand. Have a read of each attractions summary below, or alternatively, click a link to the left (or the attractions heading) for more detailed information and some great pictures. Please note some attractions do not have web pages.

De Molen Windmill - This is a full size operating Dutch Windmill. It is open to the public 7 days a week and allows visitors to experience a little of Holland. Tours of the working parts of the Mill are conducted and souvenirs and "milled flours" are available for purchase. This is a must see attraction.

The Foxton Horse Drawn Tram - This is a replica of 1880's public transport from that era. It is located at the Tram Station Café and can be booked for private functions and events and is usually operating on the streets of Foxton most Sundays (weather permitting). Pulled by two Clydsdale Horses, this is a ride enjoyed by all ages. Enjoy a scenic and educational trip as you ride through the historic streets of Foxton.

Electric Trolley Bus Museum - Electrical lines have been installed on some of the streets of Foxton to give you the experience of riding in a long forgotten mode of New Zealand transport, "The Electric Trolley Bus." Please note we do not have a web page for this attraction yet.

MAV Tech Museum - This museum houses one of the most extensive collections of audio and visual equipment on display. It also utilizes old carbon arc movie projectors for it's monthly movies. This museum may be booked for private functions and is usually open on Weekend aftrenoons. The building is a 1926 replacement for an earlier turn of the century theatre and town hall.

Flax Stripper Museum A tour of this museum includes seeing the machinery in operation and includes a newsreel video from the 1940's. A photographic display shows the production of carpets and woolpacks from flax. This working machinery is still put to practical use with flax being stripped for people who want fibre for furniture-making, packing and Maori crafts. Foxton was home to a number of Flax Mills situated on the Manawatu riverbank. Open daily 1pm to 3pm or by appointment.

Museum of Foxton History - Originally the main Court building, it displays documents and articles of Foxton's historic past. Foxton has a very long history and the museum is well worth a visit. Open Sundays 2pm to 4pm or by appointment.

Easton Park Recreation Public Pools - These are indoor and outdoor swimming pools available to all. Easton Park is also the home of the Foxton Rugby Football Club

Main Street Foxton - This is one of the widest streets in New Zealand. Originally a tramrail ran down the centre before the iron rails were installed near the wharf area. Foxton has had a history of many fires and very few buildings remain from before 1900. However, there are a few worth noting:

  1. Foxton Little Theatre - This building was a Presbyterian Church built in 1867 for the Rev. James Duncan the first European settler in Foxton (Previously known as Te Awahou). It is now used by the local thespian group for plays.
  2. Post Office Hotel - Was originally a private dwelling and business. This was built in the late 1870's and was known as "Aberdeen House". In the 1890's the southern part was added and it became a Hotel.
  3. Whytes Hotel - This is now the local New World supermarket. It operated from 1876.
  4. Manawatu Print - Inside the print shop is printing equipment still in use from the late 1890's.
  5. The Anglican Church - This was built in 1876 and much of it's original décor survive. Open every Sunday for services and by appointment or request.

Many of the remaining buildings were built in the early 1900's to 1920's after several fires destroyed the original buildings.

Foxton Beach - Located only 5 minutes drive from Foxton, the beach is a sunny, sandy place where locals and visitors go for long walks, splashing in the waves and building sandcastles. There is an enormous parking area for even the largest motor home. You will also find a relaxing café called "Simply Balmy" for lunches, dinners, or just a sit and a drink.

Manawatu Marine Boating Club - this facility has grown over the years and is a club many of the locals belong to. There is a launching ramp for boat owners plus a wharf to fish from. The local Coastguard is also based there.

Foxton Beach Bird Estuary - This is a very important bird sanctuary. It is world re-known for the different species of birds that come here from other places of the world.

Foxton River Loop - The River that runs through Foxton was once the main transport artery for early 1800 settlers. A wharf was located here as well a train station. The years of silt build-up has reduced it in size, but through the commitment of many people, the river is poised to come alive again. This will become one of Foxtons most utilized attractions. See it today before the ravages of time have been erased.

Foxton River Loop Walk - Next to the old wharf area on the river is an area of boardwalks that have been established for walks through some of the riverbanks unique nature and plant life. This also runs along the old railway line and is a very relaxing and beautiful walkway.

Seaview Gardens - This area up and around the water tower was once called Seaview Hill. People used to walk up the hill to watch the ferries go across the river and to watch the ships enter the river entrance at the heads of Foxton Beach.

Foxton Murals - This is an incredible asset to our town. The murals depict life from days gone by. You can even take a tour of the murals in our very own horse drawn tram!